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Drogba to retire and return to Chelsea – report

Didier Drogba is close to making another return to Chelsea – but as an assistant to new boss Guus Hiddink.

Drogba has informed his current club Montreal Impact that he will retire with immediate effect and will join the backroom staff at Stamford Bridge, according to French newspaper L’Equipe.

The report says that severance pay ‘will not hinder’ the Ivorian’s move back to the Blues; a club in which he scored 164 goals in 381 appearances.

Although there has been no official confirmation, the news is likely to please Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who spoke fondly of his mate Didier in a recent interview.

“I had a very good relationship with [Drogba] last year. He was great for the dressing room and our team,” the Belgian said.

“If he comes back as a coach it will be a great addition to all the team.”

Last month, Hiddink admitted his interest in bringing Drogba back to Stamford Bridge after the pair were pictured alongside owner Roman Abramovich during the 3-1 win over Sunderland.

“Those rare kind of ex-players with this big status really would be very good for any club to have, especially him because he’s a Chelsea legend,” Hiddink said.

“You have to give them time and opportunities to find out what’s best for them. It might be on the coaching staff, or ambassador. that’s a bit more of an official function for me.

“These guys need to be in the squad helping younger players, all the players, with their huge experience.

“I’m not in favour of a big ambassador travelling the world in a tie. I think they must give their huge experience to all, especially young kids, but also the older ones when they are in trouble in their career.”